The 32-year-old midfielder played the full 90 minutes for Liverpool against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

But the skipper is to have a precautionary scan on his knee before travelling to Sweden and leading Roy Hodgson's side in the international friendly.

A statement on the Football Association website read: "Steven Gerrard will have a precautionary scan this afternoon, having reported for England duty on Sunday evening following Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Chelsea.

"Gerrard is expected to be fit to travel to Sweden where he is in line to win his 100th cap for his country."

Five players, including Wayne Rooney, have already withdrawn from the England squad.

Liverpool's next fixture is at home to Wigan in the Premier League on Saturday.

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?